When we visited Ipoh for five weeks with our kids, this spot kept coming up as one of the must-visit attractions, and after going, I completely understand why.
It’s close to town, undeniably scenic, and offers that perfect balance of adventure and ease that works so well for families. But I’ll warn you now: the experience doesn’t start out magical.
You won’t arrive at a polished entrance or a big welcome sign. It’s rustic in its own way. So when our Grab driver turned off the main road and bumped along a dirt lane, I looked at my husband like, “Is this right?”
We pulled into a small parking area beside a ticket booth and a tiny lake with a narrow tunnel behind it. Nothing about this first spot prepared us for what was hidden on the other side, an enormous, dramatic landscape you would never know existed. It feels remote and completely tucked away, which honestly makes reaching it even more rewarding.
Why Mirror Lake Ipoh Works So Well for Families
We wanted to visit Mirror Lake Ipoh with kids because it looked beautiful without the effort of a big hike or the overwhelm of large crowds. And it turned out to be extremely family-friendly, a definite bonus when you have two kids in tow.
The highlight for all of us? The inflatable Kodiak raft at Mirror Lake 2 that takes you through a cave to reach the lake on the other side.
They sized the raft just for our family of four, handed the kids their own little life jackets, and our guide spoke English, which made everything feel simple and safe. The moment the raft drifted into the tunnel, the kids lit up, it felt like a mini expedition.
And then you reach the other side… and it’s breathtaking.
Surrounded by massive limestone mountains shooting straight out of the ground, the lake is incredibly still, almost glass-like. Even though Mirror Lake is a popular attraction, once you’re behind the mountains, it feels surprisingly peaceful and secluded.
If you have a baby or a child who won’t sit still in a small raft, this part may be tricky. But the property offers so much more:
- Rainbow steps
- A heart-shaped lookout with love locks
- A small animal petting zone
- ATVs
- A food stall
- And even a classic Ipoh white coffee café
You can totally customize the experience to fit your family.
For toddlers who can sit on your lap and older kids who love new adventures, Mirror Lake Ipoh is a win.
Getting to Mirror Lake Ipoh With Kids (Super Easy!)
One of my favorite parts of traveling in Malaysia is how convenient and inexpensive transportation is. We took a Grab (SE Asia’s version of Uber) from just outside central Ipoh near our Airbnb, no planning, no stress, no tour groups, and it cost only a few dollars.
If you’ve ever struggled getting a ride from farther-out attractions (like Kellie’s Castle, which can be tricky), you’ll appreciate how close Mirror Lake is to the city.
Your Grab will usually drop you at the first lake with the small ticket booth, but you can also ask to be dropped at the top near the larger parking lot where the main entrance and Mirror Lake 1 are located. [click for Google Map]
And in case you’re wondering:
- No reservations needed
- No tour guide required
- No complicated logistics
It’s truly one of the easiest family day trips in Ipoh.
What to Expect When You Arrive (Including the Tunnel!)
Most families come for the iconic lake, which you reach by walking through a large, well-lit tunnel carved into the mountain. At the tunnel entrance, there’s a ticket counter, this is where you pay for access to the tunnel and viewpoint. (I almost walked right through without realizing it needed a ticket… oops.)
Inside the tunnel, you’ll see touches of the region’s mining history:
- Pick marks in the stone
- Natural formations
- Small informational displays
The tunnel is spacious, cool, and easy to walk through. Leave the stroller at home, babywearing is much easier here.
On the other side, the world opens up. Towering cliffs. Still water. A dramatic, peaceful scene that feels worlds away from the city.
You’ll see a viewing platform where you can look out over the lake, and to the right is the launch point for the Kodiak raft rides. Life jackets are included with your ticket, and the staff are great with families.
We spent about 1.5 hours total doing:
- The raft ride at the smaller Mirror Lake 2
- Walking through the main tunnel
- Enjoying the views
- Exploring the extra activities
It’s the perfect length for kids, long enough to be memorable without pushing their limits.
Budget Breakdown: How Much Does Mirror Lake Ipoh Cost?
If you’re traveling Malaysia on a budget, this is an ideal stop.
There’s no entrance fee to walk around the general property. You only pay for:
- Tunnel access
- Raft/boat rides (Mirror Lake I & II each have separate tickets)
- Extra activities (ATVs, petting zoo, etc.)
Compared to many attractions in Malaysia, the pricing is very reasonable, especially considering how scenic and well maintained everything is.
On-site amenities include:
- A white coffee café
- A food stall
- Clean bathrooms with both Eastern & Western toilets
- Some vendors accepting cards, others requiring cash
Budget tips for families:
- Bring snacks
- Use Grab instead of renting a car
- Visit early to avoid tour bus crowds
- Skip the add-ons unless something truly interests your kids
We skipped the ATVs and animal zone as the lakes and tunnel alone offered plenty for us.
Parent-to-Parent: Safety & Comfort Tips
Here’s everything I wish I knew before visiting Mirror Lake Ipoh with kids:
1. Heat
We didn’t struggle with heat because the mountains provide lots of shade and the tunnel is naturally cool. This is not a sweaty hike.
2. Strollers
Skip them. The ground is uneven gravel and dust. Babywearing is much easier.
3. Raft Safety
Kids get life jackets. Adults and kids get helmets for Mirror Lake II. Guides lead the way with flashlights. It felt very safe and well handled.
4. Bathrooms
Shockingly clean! One of the best facilities we’ve seen at a tourist attraction in Malaysia.
5. Footwear
Sandals or sneakers both work, just expect dusty feet.
6. Crowds
Go when they open. Tour buses begin arriving late morning.
Fun Things to Do With Kids at Mirror Lake Ipoh
Here were our kids’ favorite parts:
1. The Raft Ride
Floating through a cave together in a small Kodiak raft at Mirror Lake 2 felt like a real adventure, simple but memorable.
2. The Views
Mirror Lake is extremely photogenic. On still mornings, the reflections are incredible. Once boats start moving or the wind picks up, the mirror effect fades, another reason to go early.
3. The Extra Attractions
Even without paying for add-ons, there’s plenty to explore:
- Colorful rainbow steps
- The heart-shaped lookout with locks
- A small (but worn) playground
- Multiple scenic photo spots
For a longer outing, you can even pair the visit with the Buddhist temple next door (Ling Sen Tong Temple), which makes for an easy and meaningful morning.
When Should Families Visit Mirror Lake Ipoh?
We went in the morning, and I’d recommend that to every family.
Why mornings are best:
- Cooler temperatures
- Softer light for photos
- Fewer people
- Easier raft rides
- Calmer environment for kids
Afternoons bring the tour buses, which means lines, crowds, and noise. If possible, visit Monday–Thursday as weekends get noticeably busier.
Final Thoughts: Is Mirror Lake Ipoh Worth Visiting With Kids?
Absolutely.
If you’re traveling through Ipoh or exploring Malaysia as a family and want an experience that’s easy, scenic, and budget-friendly, Mirror Lake Ipoh is a wonderful choice.
It’s especially great for:
- Families who love gentle nature activities
- Kids who enjoy tunnels, boats, and “hidden worlds”
- Parents craving a peaceful outing without complicated logistics
- Anyone who wants stunning photos in a dramatic landscape
Would I go again? Probably not, but only because it felt like we fully experienced it the first time. It’s a “one perfect visit” kind of place. One morning, two lakes, and a fun little adventure tucked between limestone cliffs.
But would I recommend it to another family?
In a heartbeat.
Mirror Lake Ipoh isn’t just beautiful as it gives you memories. The moment your raft glides into that hidden lake, and your kids’ faces light up in the soft glow of the mountains, you’ll understand exactly why this place is so loved.
If you’re planning a trip to Malaysia or looking for family-friendly things to do in Ipoh on a budget, add Mirror Lake to your list. It’s simple, scenic, and exactly the kind of low-stress adventure families appreciate.
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Visit Cameron Highlands from Ipoh with your kids.
